Top 7 Places to Visit in France Outside of Paris

Are you also someone who thinks France starts with the Eiffel Tower and ends with it? Then, think again! While Paris is definitely one of the best places to visit in France, limiting your trip to just the capital is like sampling only wine at the vineyard. France offers an incredible variety of landscapes from sun-drenched lavender fields in Provence to fairy tale chateaux dotting the Loire Valley that have inspired artisans for centuries. 

So, it’s time to search for places to visit in France outside Paris and make the most of your European vacation. Read our compiled list of places to visit in France beyond the City of Lights that will leave you in awe. 

Best Places To Visit in France That Breathtaking Beyond Paris 

Are you looking for places to visit in France that are beyond Paris and equally beautiful and romantic? Then we have compiled a list for you so that you can explore freely - 

1. Alsace

The very first on our list of places to visit in France is Alsace, located in northeastern France, bordering Germany to the east. This place in France is known for its picturesque setting, charming architecture and influence of both French and German traditions. This cool place to visit in France is home to two iconic sites, which you should definitely visit. Strasbourg and Colmar are the two Alsatian towers near the picturesque vineyards with lots of history to explore. Reaching Alsace is easy, as you have to take a direct train from Paris, and voila, you are in the town of the world-famous Christmas Market. 

2. The Dordogne and The Lot 

Another in our list is one of the best places to visit in South of France - The Dordogne, also known as Perigord. This French town is known for its historical narrow valleys, prehistoric sites, natural landscapes and many more. However, the Lot is a department in the Occitanie region of southern France. This place is known for its picturesque medieval villages (and when we say picturesque, we really mean those postcard-perfect pictures of French vacations you see in brochures) with timbered houses. Some of the popular places that you can explore in the Dordogne are Domme, Beynac-et-Cazenac, Périgueux, La Roque-Gageac, Bergerac, Brantôme and many more. 

3. Provence

If you are already in the southeastern part of France, then you should also add Provence to your list. It is definitely one of the best places to visit in South of France, where you can witness lavender fields in full bloom, historical towns, the best farmers’ markets and lovely historic sights. You can use  Saint-Rémy-de-Provence as your base to explore the whole region, as it has some of the best hotels along with the easily accessible nearby towns and villages. If you want to explore the Provincial coastline, then you should head to Cassis. The town has great beaches with amazing hiking trails to explore. 

4. Normandy 

Now, let’s move to the northwestern part of France with our list of the best places to visit in France beyond Paris. Normandy is known for its important role in the D-Day landings during World War II, and the region's beaches, like Omaha and Utah Beach, are great examples of Allied invasions. The landscape of Normandy is breathtaking with its rolling green landscape, coastal cliffs, sandy beaches, and picturesque apple orchards. If you are a history enthusiast, then you can explore historic towns such as Rouen, Honfleur and Bayeux. The iconic Mount Saint-Michael (which you will mostly see on Instagram) is a UNESCO World Heritage site and a marvel of architecture to witness. So, book your flights to France with Experian Airfare now and explore this iconic place beyond Paris. 

Also Read: Museums In France Guide

5. Lourdes

If you are looking to explore the spiritual side of France, then you should head to Lourdes, one of the most beautiful places to visit in France. Tucked away in the foothills of the Pyrenees mountains, many catholics believe that in the 19th century, the Virgin Mary appeared 18 times to a young girl at the Grotto of Massabielle. This has made Lourdes one of the most important religious destinations in the world. Here you can explore places like the home of Bernadette Soubirous, the Sanctuary of Our Lady of Lourdes, the Grotto of Massabielle and many more. 

6. The French Riviera

If the perfect beachside, fueled by Rose, is alluring for your next vacation, then you should head to the French Riviera. The thing which makes this place one of the most beautiful places to visit in France outside of Paris is its stunning beaches, gorgeous hikes, Michelin star restaurants and whatnot! The French Riviera is also one of the best places to explore the world-class museums, especially during the summer months. The region comprises beautiful cities like Nice, Cannes and Monaco, where you can chill and enjoy the views of the Mediterranean Sea. Even the small towns of the region, like Saint-Tropez, Eze, and Menton, are also worth visiting. 

Pro tip: If you are coming from Paris, then we recommend you to fly down to Nice Airport as it is quicker to reach the French Riviera by train with the views of the coastline. 

7. The Loire Valley 

When we are talking about the best places to visit in France beyond Paris, how can we forget about the heart of France? The Loire Valley is a region filled with unmatchable natural beauty and historical significance that you should explore. And guess what? The vineyards here are producing some of the finest wines in the country. A trip to this region feels like you are stepping into a fairytale where you can explore castle-like towns such as Chinon and Amboise. Also, when you are in the Loire Valley, you can miss out on famous castles like Château de Chambord, Château de Chenonceau, Château de Villandry, Château d'Azay-le-Rideau, and Château de Amboise. 

Pro Tip: Public transport is limited in the region, so we recommend you to take a road trip in this area. 

Conclusion

Here is our list of 7 places to visit in France beyond Paris that will absolutely transform your French adventure from ordinary to extraordinary! From sipping world-class wines in sun-kissed Bordeaux vineyards to wandering through fairy-tale chateaux in the Loire Valley, from savoring lavender-scented breezes in Provence to discovering alpine magic in Annecy's turquoise lakes—these destinations will tick off every item on your French bucket list.

So forget everything you thought you knew about France being just about the Eiffel Tower! Pack your bags, book your flights to France with Experian Airfare, and prepare to fall head-over-heels in love with a country that's been keeping its most spectacular secrets hidden in plain sight. 

FAQs

Q- What are the best regions to explore in France outside of Paris?

The best places to visit in France include Provence (lavender fields, hilltop villages), Loire Valley (fairy-tale châteaux), Normandy (D-Day beaches, dramatic coastlines), Alsace (wine villages), and the French Riviera (glamorous coastal towns). Each region offers distinct cultural experiences and natural attractions.

Q- How much time should I spend exploring France outside of Paris?

Plan at least 7-10 days to explore 2-3 regions properly, allowing 3-4 days per region. For shorter trips, focus on one main area like Provence or Loire Valley. April-June and September-October offer the best weather and fewer crowds for visiting places to visit in France.

Q- Is renting a car necessary to visit places outside Paris?

A car significantly enhances exploration of rural best places to visit in France like Alsace, Burgundy, and Provence's countryside villages. However, major cities like Lyon, Strasbourg, Bordeaux, and Nice are easily accessible by France's excellent train network, making cars optional for urban-focused trips.

Q- What's the best time to visit different regions of France?

Spring (April-June) suits Loire Valley and Provence; summer (July-August) is ideal for the French Riviera and Alps; September-October is perfect for wine regions during harvest season. Northern regions like Normandy are best in late spring when weather is mild and daylight hours are longest.

Q- Can I visit France's regions as day trips from Paris or do I need overnight stays?

Some destinations like Reims (50 minutes) and Chantilly (30 minutes) work as day trips. However, regions like Provence, French Riviera, and Alsace require 2-3 nights minimum to truly experience their unique character, local cuisine, and cultural offerings beyond rushed tourist highlights.